Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics

Overview:

The PhD program in Economics at COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, is tailored to provide scholars with a deep understanding of economic theories and analytical tools essential for addressing the intricate economic challenges faced by a country like Pakistan. This program is structured to offer a high-quality education within a stimulating and research-intensive environment, fostering the development of independent critical thinking in scholars. Our dedicated faculty prioritizes excellence in teaching and research in economics and related fields, striving to elevate the department to international competitiveness.

Curriculum:

Following core and elective courses would be part of the PhD Economics degree program:

	List of Core Courses
Course Code	Course Title	Credit Hours
ECO801	Advanced Topics in Macroeconomics Theory	3
ECO802	Advanced Topics in Microeconomics Theory	3
ECO803	Advanced Topics in Econometric Theory	3
	List of Elective Courses
ECO804	Economic Integration and CPEC	3(3-0)
ECO805	Climate Change and Natural Resources	3(3-0)
ECO806	Capital Markets and International Financial Institutions	3(3-0)
ECO807	Agriculture Productivity and Efficiency Analysis	3(3-0)
ECO808	Topics in Public Finance	3(3-0)
ECO809	Topics in Monetary Theory	3(3-0)
ECO810	Topics in Industrial Economics	3(3-0)
ECO811	Seminar in Human Resource Economics	3(3-0)
ECO812	Topics in Development Theory	3(3-0)
ECO813	Public Policy	3(3-0)
	Comprehensive examination
ECO900	Thesis	9(9-0)

Research Opportunities:

Research opportunities within the PhD program in Economics are designed to foster problem solving skills in students by gaining a deeper understanding of economic concepts, by correctly identifying data sources, and by applying advanced econometric and machine learning tools. By engaging students in ongoing national and international research projects of the faculty, department aims to enable students to win research grants independently, become data analysts, publish in top tiered journals, and collaborate with government and industry.

Career Opportunities:

A Doctor of Philosophy in Economics provides graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in economic theory, research methodologies, econometrics, machine learning, scientific writings, presentations, and publications. This higher level of education opens a broader range of career paths and job prospects. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with a PhD program in Economics:

1. Economist: With a PhD degree in economics, they may find opportunities in government agencies, central banks, international organizations, research institutions, or think tanks. Economists analyze economic data, conduct research, develop economic models, and provide insights and recommendations on economic policies, trends, and market dynamics.
2. Data Analyst/Data Scientist: PhD Graduates with advanced quantitative and qualitative skills and econometric and machine learning knowledge can work with large datasets, apply statistical, econometric and machine learning techniques, build predictive models, and derive insights to guide decision-making processes in public policy and industries.
3. Research Analyst: They can pursue careers as research analysts in both public and private sectors. They can work in market research firms, policy research organizations, consulting companies, conducting economic research, analyzing data, and providing insights for strategic planning, policy development, or business decision-making.
4. Financial Analyst/Quantitative Analyst: With their advanced knowledge of economic principles and quantitative analysis, PhD graduates can work as financial analysts or quantitative analysts in the finance industry.
5. Policy Advisor/Consultant: PhD graduates of Economics program can work as policy advisors or consultants, providing expertise on economic policies and their implications. They can work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms, and advising on various policy areas such as fiscal policy, trade policy, environmental policy, agricultural policy or development policy.
6. Market Research Manager: With their advanced research skills, economics graduates can progress into managerial roles in market research. They can oversee research projects, manage teams, analyze market trends, and provide strategic insights to guide marketing strategies and business development.
7. Economic Forecasting Analyst: Many organizations including banks, research institutions, and consulting firms employ economists with PhD degrees to analyze economic indicators, model economic scenarios, and provide forecasts and predictions to guide financial and business decisions.
8. Academic Career: PhD Graduates can pursue a post doctorate in Economics and become professors, researchers, or economists in academia.

Admission Requirements:

The minimum eligibility criteria for admission in PhD program are:

1. Minimum 3.0 CGPA out of 4.0 in the Semester System OR First Division in the Annual System in M.Phil./M.S./Equivalent with minimum 6 credit hours research work at MPhil/MS level is required.
2. A subject test conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) with a minimum of 60% marks is required for admission in PhD Economics Program.

Scholarships Opportunities:

1. The Department of Economics currently does not offer any scholarship at the time of admission.
2. Other organizations like Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan offers various PhD scholarships in particular ‘Indigenous Ph.D. Fellowship Program Phase-II’ available at https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/scholarshipsgrants/IPHDFP5000F/Pages/default.aspx
3. Some other scholarship opportunities by HEC are available at https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/scholarshipsgrants/pages/default.aspx